


LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 




DDDDSllfllihS 



0-A 






^^6 






\/ ' 




■^0 

.♦0 "^ ^ 



^O 










^o. 





40, 



• ^' 



^o. 




vO v- 







' '^.c*^*^ * 



'^P^- 



^ .^^-V. 






VV>* ^A 



V ^*'%. • 









r.. 







^^-n^. 













,4Q 
















- -^-ot : 



< o 











. > 





0^ -'J^^.^^ 



4- "*'''* ^f . 



. ^^ A^ ♦>vVa-. "^^^r .C> »': 






DIARY KEPT BY 
RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 




BERNARD CASTLE STUBBS 



•lAR 

:an 



n u i-.il 



Proem 

So al the threat ye shall summon — so at the need ye shall send 
Men, not children or servants, tempered and taught to the end; 
Cleansed of servile panic, slow to dread or despise 
Humble because of knowledge, mighty by sacrifice. . . . 
So ye shall bide sure guarded when the restless lightnings iL'ake 
In the womb of the blotting war cloud, and the pallid nations quake. 

RuDYARD Kipling 



DIARY KEPT BY 
RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 



OF THE SECOND DRAFT 

SENT TO THE 

QUEEN VICTORIA RIFLES 

IN FRANCE 



r 



CHICAGO 

PRIVATELY PRINTED 

1915 



^.^. 



1(0 



Copyright, 191 6, by 
RALPH McCOY 



JAfl ISiS.'O 
©CIA430527 



'' Dulce et Decorum Esf^ 

MR. B. C. STUBBS 

ONCE again the shadow has fallen darkly on all associated 
with the Union-Castle Line, both in the City of London and 
at sea. Another young member of the Company's staff at 
the Fenchurch Street offices, Mr. Bernard Castle Stubbs, who joined 
the Queen Victoria's Rifles (gth Battalion London Regiment) in 
September last, has laid down his life for his country. Shortly 
after enlistment, he volunteered for the first draft which went out to 
make good the casualties in his regiment, and on arriving in France 
last February was sent direct to the firing line. He was in the 
famous fight on Hill 60 during the night of April 20-21, under the 
command of Lieutenant G. H. Woolley, who gained the first Victoria 
Cross conferred on a Territorial officer for his gallant efforts in that 
bitterly contested struggle. On June 22 Private Stubbs sustained 
a shell wound in the head, and he died on the following day at the 
Receiving Hospital at Bailleul, without having regained conscious- 
ness. The lad was educated for eight years at Slough, where he 
was distinguished both in his classes and in the school sports, and 
was head boy of the school during his last few terms, as well as cap- 
tain bf the cricket and football teams, the holder of a cup for the 
school championship at "fives," and the winner of the swimming 
medal of the school. He later captained the Old Boys' football team ^ 
On leaving school in 1907 he entered the offices of the Union-Castle 
line, and his death at the early age of 24 has closed what was a very 
promising career. 

— South Africa 



DIARY KEPT BY 
RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Wednesday, February lo, 191 5 

OWING to wire calling me back from leave, left 
Watford by 7:51 train, catching the 9:10 from 
Victoria to Crowboro'. Left Crowboro' by 
6:03 for Southampton after a fine send-ofF from rest of 
Battalion. Arrived Southampton at 11 p. m. and spent 
a good night on floor of board school in the town. 

Thursday, February 11, 191 5 

Morning spent in having hair cut short and a nice hot 
bath — ^just to make sure that anyway I leave England 
clean. Afternoon we marched to Army Stores and drew 
new rifles and bayonets. In the evening sported 3d at 
a local cinema. Another good night on school floor. 

Friday, February 12, 191 5 

Stood by till 12 noon all ready to embark, and then 
told owing to submarines in Channel we could not get 
away. Hung about Southampton all afternoon and 
did a music hall in evening. Shall be glad to get a 
move on, although Southampton people are very kind. 

[9] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Saturday, February 13, 191 5 

Fred Karno's army again! Stood by all morning, 
then told no chance of going to-day and dismissed till 
roll call at 9:30. Had a game of billiards after draw- 
ing ten bob from local Donald Currie Office, and 
just going to have tea when told to return to schools 
at once as we were just off. Hurried back and 
stood by for an hour, and then dismissed again. Did 
another picture show in evening, but spent a rotten 
night owing to toothache and squash through more 
troops coming in. 

Sunday, February 14, 191 5 

Off at last! Told definitely we embark at 12 noon 
and actually did so, but did not leave quay until 6. 
The whole way down Southampton water we were 
covered with searchlights, and then picked up an 
escort of destroyers who saw us safely across. But 
what a voyage! About 8:30 I found myself wedged 
with others into stable with horses a few yards away. 
Ship, a cargo boat and rolled like hell! Any amount of 
men ill but thank goodness I kept fit. Eventually 
dozed off about 11:30. 

Monday, February, 15, 191 5 

Made my way out of stable to find ship lying off 
Havre at about 6:30 a. m. Eventually docked at 12 
noon and then transferred to another and smaller ship 

[lol 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

for our journey up the Seine. Very surprised at the 
size of docks at Havre. The town looked very pretty 
from the ship and should have liked a short time 
ashore, but nothing doing! Turned in at 8 o'clock, 
but horses made such a row could not sleep. Walked 
round ship whilst we left harbour and anchored in 
mouth of river, ready for our trip to Rouen in morn- 
ing. Finally fell asleep on a form in men's quarters 
and slept fairly well. 

Tuesday, February i6, 191 5 

Up at 6:30 and luckily got a cup of coffee from ship's 
cook. Have lived on bully beef and biscuits since 
leaving Southampton, so coffee was properly appre- 
ciated. Started our voyage up the Seine at 9 o'clock. 
When we left Southampton, we had over 1000 troops 
on board; all left at Havre except our 100 and 50 
Artists Rifles, so we are a merry little crowd. The 
trip up the river was simply great. Glorious day and 
the scenery ripping the whole way. Arrived at Rouen 
about 5:30 but stayed on board the night. Slept on 
the mess-room table and had a good night. 

Wednesday, February 17, 191 5 

Left the boat at 8 o'clock and had a 5-mile march 
to reach camp. Poured the whole way, so our first 
footing on French soil was hardly encouraging. Ar- 
rived at camp and put eleven in each hut (or tent), 
and then, thank God, breakfast turned up. Tea, 

[II] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

bread and jam — and didn't it go down well! Another 
medical inspection and kit finally examined; rest of 
day to ourselves. Did a cinema in evening and had a 
good night in tent. 

Thursday, February i8, 191 5 

Up at 7 o'clock, and, after an inspection by some 
General "cove" or other, had day to ourselves. Did 
cinema again in evening. Hear we are off to trenches 
to-morrow. Now it's so near, I'm very keen on getting 
there and hope it comes off. 

Friday, February 19, 191 5 

No luck! Stood by all day and no orders came out. 
Should like some work to do, as hanging about in tent 
tends to make me liverish, humpy and irritable. 

Saturday, February 20, 19 15 

Work in earnest. On road making and mud shift- 
ing from 7:15 to 4 o'clock. Got a grand wash in the 
evening and felt happy and fit once more. 

Sunday, February 21, 191 5 

Rifle inspection only. Rest of day to ourselves. 
No further orders and once again we show our capa- 
bilities at standing by. Awful job to get water to 
wash with, and the feeling of filthiness is positively 
appalling. 

[12] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Monday, February 22, 191 5 

Nothing all day beyond rifle inspection in morning. 
Told ofF for not shaving. Inter alia, the trials of a 
voluntary soldier, consist of making fires without 
wood and shaving without water. 

Tuesday, February 23, 191 5 

OfF to the trenches at last. Paraded at 2 o'clock 
and marched to Rouen Station. Tremendous train 
with all sorts and conditions of troops. Rotten car- 
riages, a bit worse than the third class on G. E. suburban 
trains. Left Rouen 5:50 p. M. and arrived Bailleul 
11:30 A. M. February 24, 1915. Detrained to the 
sound of artillery. 

Wednesday, February 24, 19 15 

Joined up with the First Battalion and met many 
old chums from Crowboro', just back from trenches 
on a few days' rest. Attached to "B" Coy, and 
billeted in a barn over a cow shed and pig sty. Had 
a grand night's rest; woken up once or twice by the 
guns which seemed horribly close. Now in Belgium 
and disgusted at the state of the peasants and hovels 
in which they live. No idea of cleanliness and seem 
to revel in dirt. Was present at a search for live 
stock by party back from trench; several captures 
witnessed, and have now some idea of what is to 
come. 

[13] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Thursday, February 25, 191 5 

Rifle inspection followed by a hot bath in a brewery 
tub and a change of linen. What luck! and what a 
lovely clean feeling. In the evening letters from home 
turned up; four from Jim, one from Mother, and p.c. 
from Tick. All are well and Fm much relieved at 
hearing after three weeks. 

Friday, February 26, 191 5 

Nothing on to-day so spent afternoon and evening 
in Bailleul. Guns rather noisy to-day but otherwise 
things fairly quiet. 

Saturday, February 27, 19 15 

Ordered to parade to march to trenches at 4:30. 
Understand we are going in for eight days, four each 
in firing and support trenches. Arrived in firing 
trench at 9:30. Cold, wet night, and continually 
sniped at during last mile. Relieved Cheshires in 
trenches opposite Messines Ridge, and just to en- 
courage us, Williams and I, who were together in 
a lookout, were told by a sergeant we were in one 
of the most dangerous parts of the line, as they had 
had eight casualties there during the day. Sur- 
prised at the calm way in which we both took this; 
and we spent the night on watch, hour in and hour 
out, without being worried beyond a few sniper 
shots. 

[14] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Sunday, February 28, 191 5 

A very interesting day. In the morning had a 
glorious view of an EngHsh airman shelled by anti- 
aircraft gun. In the afternoon had my first taste of 
shell fire, but the Germans are not good at it and did 
very little damage. 

Monday, March i, 191 5 

Sunday night was a perfect beast. Cold and wet 
and snipers very busy. As for to-day, my first real 
feeling of funk. A shell burst on parapet just in front 
of me and gave me a bad shaking. Upset me for about 
a quarter of an hour, but kept it to myself and pulled 
myself together again. In the evening, while fetching 
water, a man shot down three yards from us. Also 
rather upsetting but kept my head this time. Reached 
support trenches about 10 o'clock, and had a ripping 
sleep safe from snipers and fairly so from shells. 

Tuesday, March 2, 19 15 

Nice calm day to-day in redoubt behind firing 
line. Nothing to do all day but sleep and did that very 
well indeed. Worked all night in cutting down hedge 
so as not to affect fire in case of attack — rotten job, 
and sniped at all the time. 

Wednesday, March 3, 191 5 

Another calm day. In the afternoon watched 
German shells smashing into a village about one half 

[15] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

mile from redoubt. Very interesting and a sight never 
to be forgotten. Thank Heaven, the people had gone. 
Returned to firing line at night. 

Thursday, March 4, 191 5 

On Sunday the 28th I wrote the Germans are not 
much good with their shells. I now beg their par- 
don. The beasts shelled us with heavy guns from 7 
in the morning until dusk, and I sincerely hope I 
never have a similar experience. It's a horrible nerve 
racking job and I felt it pretty badly, but everyone 
was the same, so there is no need to blame myself. 
No sleep all day and all night; I did lookout hour 
in and hour out. 

Friday, March 5, 191 5 

A fairly calm day after yesterday, but in early 
morning surprise fusillade from Germans. Machine 
guns and heavy rifle fire. Gave them plenty back and 
they soon stopped. Returned to redoubt at night 
absolutely done to the world. 

Saturday, March 6, 191 5 

My twenty-fourth birthday. Woke at 2 p. M. and 
felt much better for long sleep. Wrote Jim and Mother, 
and spent afternoon chatting and generally lazing. 
On guard from 7 to 9 in evening and i to 3 early Sunday 
morning. 

[16] 



DIARY KE PT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Sunday, March 7, 191 5 

A quiet day in dugout. Found it hard to sleep 
owing to heavy artillery fire. Should really return to 
billets to-night but ordered to remain as supports. 
At 7 p. M. I and fifteen others ordered to proceed to 
firing lines. There for three hours during which time I 
was on listening patrol— a particularly nervy and 
rotten job. Arrived back in dugouts about midnight. 

Monday, March 8, 191 5 

Very quiet day in dugout and had a good sleep. 
Worked all night on fatigue, and returned to sup- 
porting line at dawn. 

Tuesday, March 9, 191 5 

Stood by all day, and at night received joyful news 
to return to billets. Reached them at midnight, and 
relief at being out of all danger for the present cannot 
be overestimated. 

Wednesday, March 10, 191 5 

Slept on well into the day. In evening walked into 
village of Dresouke and had a good wash, shave, and 
meal. Ye Gods! 

Thursday, March 11, 191 5 

Busy all day on various fatigues. We come from 
trenches for what is called a "rest." I should like to 
know what the Army Authorities call "work." 

[17] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Friday, March 12, 191 5 

Marched into Bailleul and took up fresh billets in 
another barn. Very glad to see some really respect- 
able people, and the barn for a change happened to 
be nice and clean. 

Saturday, March 13, 191 5 

Morning spent in physical and bayonet drill, and 
in the afternoon had a bath and change of linen. 
Very nice indeed, and after a good meal spent evening 
in recreation-room. 

Sunday, March 14, 191 5 

Ye Gods! what a day; turned out at 5 a. m. and left 
billets in full marching order for unknown destination 
at 9. Marched all morning over an awful cobbled 
road and bivouacked in wheatfield all afternoon. 
In evening marched to trenches about four miles to 
the north of Armentieres. Got right to firing line to 
find we were not expected and not wanted. Here we 
are twelve or thirteen miles from billets and done to 
the wide. Spent two hours lying on the road whilst 
an empty farm was found which we reached about 
midnight. Went straight off to sleep, and never 
remember feeling as whacked before. 

Monday, March 15, 191 5 

Spent day in farm waiting for further orders, and 
at 8 p. M. once more marched to trenches. Placed in 

[i8l 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

supports in what once was a village — now not a whole 
house standing. I and six others put into a small 
coal cellar of a house of which one wall is now standing. 
Spent night on guard. Plenty of snipers about and 
grenades fairly frequent, but no shells. 

Tuesday, March i6, 19 15 

Quiet day in cellar. Only two shells over, but no harm 
done. Evening on guard again similar to last night. 

Wednesday, March 17, 191 5 

Another day in cellar. Slept most of the time and 
only a few shells over. In evening relieved by Dublin 
Fusiliers, and started on our return march to Bailleul 
about 9 o'clock. Reached our billets at 1 130 a. m. Thurs- 
day morning, very, very fagged. That beastly cob- 
bled road is too awful, and everyone felt whacked, 
although the total distance marched could not have 
been more than twelve miles. 

Thursday, March 18, 191 5 

Up about 10 o'clock and spent morning cleaning up 
once more. In evening had a good meal in town and 
retired early, fairly happy once more. 

Friday, March 19, 191 5 

Rifle and equipment inspection in morning; after- 
noon and evening to ourselves. Toothache very bad 
all day and glad to stay in billets. 

[19] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Saturday, March 20, 191 5 

Route march in morning and spent afternoon sharp- 
ening Company's bayonets. In the evening visited 
cinema open for first time in Bailleul to-night. Very 
good show and thoroughly enjoyed it. 

Sunday, March 21, 191 5 

On guard all day outside billets. Very uninterest- 
ing and monotonous except for mild excitement caused 
by a German Taube appearing over town. Too high 
up for effectual rifle fire and it soon cleared off. 

Monday, March 22, 19 15 

A most interesting march to that poor ill-fated 
town of Ypres, twelve miles — the whole way lying a 
Httle behind the firing line. Flying machines galore — 
two heavily but ineffectually shelled by the Germans. 
Ypres in shocking condition. Quartered in Belgian 
barracks, roof of which has been smashed in in many 
places. Don't feel particularly safe as town is still 
shelled daily, but here's hoping our luck will stand. 

Tuesday, March 23, 19 15 

Had a stroll round Ypres and returned horribly 
depressed. Most beautiful buildings absolutely ruined, 
and town is one mass of ruins. A few people still liv- 
ing there, mainly proprietors of cafes, etc., otherwise 
streets deserted. Two shells fell into town to-day 
but happily missed the barracks. 

[20] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Wednesday, March 24, 191 5 

Told to be ready for forty-eight hours in trenches to- 
night. Spent day making necessary preparations, and 
at 8 o'clock started for what perhaps is most important 
point of British lines. Our Company attached to Kings 
Own Scottish Borderers — a fine regiment and awfully 
decent chaps. Reached supports about 10. Terrific 
rifle fire but we got through with only nine casualties. 

Thursday, March 25, 191 5 

Hard at work before dawn improving dugouts, 
and, as snipers left off at daybreak and we were in 
dead ground, were allowed to stroll about during day. 
Heavily shelled for about an hour from 10 to 11, 
during which time we laid low. At work during night 
improving roads, turning in at 4:30 a. m. 

Friday, March 26, 191 5 

Went to sleep in dugout about 7:30 after a good 
drink of hot bovril. Slept well till noon when woke 
up to heavy shell fire. Laid low till dusk when shell- 
ing ceased, and we left for our return to billets at 8:15 
p. M. Arrived at camp at 10:30 p. m. and once more 
thankful at coming through all right. 

Saturday, March 27, 191 5 

Up late, and having no parades took things easily. 
Afternoon had a game of footer and thoroughly en- 
joyed the exercise. 

[21] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLE MAX B. C. S TUBES 

Sunday, March 2d>, 191 5 

Police duty from 7 to 8, 10 to 12, and 4 to 5. Very 
quiet and no arrests made. 

Monday, March 29, 191 5 

Paraded in morning for drill and bayonet exercise. 
In the afternoon walked to Popperinghe and had a very 
good time. Fine place untouched by shells, and found 
a shop where they sold English tea — what a luxury! 

Tuesday, March 30, 191 5 

Joy of joys! Ordered to parade for a bath. First 
one since the March 13th, and it was very welcome. 
Am now decidedly "Itchy Koo" and am so ashamed 
of it, but am afraid it cannot be avoided. 

Wednesday. March 31, 191 5 

Marched from camp back into the barracks at 
Ypres, and understand we are now once more standing 
by and will go into trenches on Friday evening. 

Thitrsday, April i, 191 5 

Bayonet drill, etc., in morning. Town shelled dur- 
ing day. One in barracks but not much damage. 

Friday, April 2, 19 15 

Not going to trenches to-night owing to dangerous 
roads when carrying on relief. Instead we are to do 

[22] 



DIARY KEP T BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

five days straight off from Monday next. Quiet day, 
nothing doing beyond fatigue work, attended Morning 
Service for first time since leaving England. 

Saturday, April 3, 191 5 
Town again shelled during day. More civilians 
killed but barracks again escape. Drill and fatigues 
only. In afternoon attended service conducted by 
Bishop of London. Short but very nice service. 

Sunday, April 4, 191 5 

Church in morning. Quiet all day till 9, when I 
went up to trenches on digging fatigue. Got to bed 
about 2:30 and jolly glad to lie in on Monday morning. 

Monday, April 5, 19 15 

Up late, and spent day getting ready for our trip 
to trenches. Left barracks at 6:45 and carried out 
relief at 9 P. M. Very busy night. Continual deliberate 
fire and, oh, how it rained! No cover whatever and 
we've got this for five days. Ye Gods! 

Tuesday, April 6, 191 5 
Rained on and off whole day. Impossible to sleep 
owing to rain and shells. Feel very despondent and 
miserable, but long time to go yet so must stick 
it. Another busy night and more rain. Am now 
properly soaked, so it does not matter if it pours all 
the time. 

[23] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Wednesday, April 7, 191 5 

Weather slightly better, but still plenty of rain on 
and off. Artillery active, otherwise day fairly quiet. 
Periscope very useful indeed. Night very busy indeed, 
continued rifle and artillery fire. Several narrow 
escapes whilst searching German lines. Twice covered 
with sand from shots in bags to my right and left. 

Thursday, April 8, 191 5 

Thank goodness! decided improvement in weather. 
One or two hail showers but not much rain. Wind 
very cold, and, by jove! it's hard to sleep. Quiet day 
but another busy night. Spoiled so far as I am con- 
cerned by violent toothache; must see a dentist after 
this spell, without fail. 

Friday, April 9, 191 5 

No sleep all day owing to toothache. Hard luck 
as day comparatively quiet — very little shell fire from 
either side. Night again very busy but glad of the 
work as helps me to forget the pain. 

Saturday, April 10, 191 5 

Relief coming to-night and arn't I glad. Slept 
a couple of hours in morning and again in after- 
noon. Artillery busy once more. Bedfords turned 
up, 11:30, so we got away about 12; reached camp 
1 :30. Had a cup of tea and asleep at once. Another 

[24] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

spell got through and so far not touched. Thank 
Heaven for my luck! 

Sunday, April ii, 191 5 

Woke at 2 p. M. Had a wash and shave and feel 
fine once more. Spent evening writing letters and going 
to make most of rest. 

Monday, April 12, 19 15 

Paraded sick and doctor gives me pills for tooth- 
ache. What a fool! Shall keep at him till he sends me to 
a dentist. Visited by a Zeppelin during night. Dropped 
six bombs, nearest two hundred yards from camp. 
Enormous holes but no damage. Our luck in again! 

Tuesday, April 13, 191 5 

Received more pills from doctor. Nearly called him 
a fool. Had a lazy afternoon, and no sign of Zeppelins. 

Wednesday, April 14, 191 5 

More pills in morning. Afternoon footer match 
between Ninth and Twelfth battalions. We lost 2-0. 
Played very well together; jolly good side — the Twelfth 
— and it was a good game. 

Thursday, April 15, 191 5 

More pills. Have now sufficient for a shop, but 
shall stick at him till I get it out. 

Us] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Friday, April i6, 191 5 

Hurrah! Told to go to hospital at Popperinghe 
and see the dentist. Jolly nice chap and tooth soon 
out. Pretty painful job, but expected that, and am so 
glad to get it out. Spent afternoon in town, and 
back at camp at 7:30. Quite a successful day. 

Saturday, April 17, 191 5 

Drill in morning and afternoon, standing by ready 
to leave camp at one hour's notice, owing to attack to be 
made on trenches and hill outside Ypres. Tremendous 
bombardment commenced by our artillery at 7 p. m. 
Kept up all night, and must have given the Huns hell! 

Sunday, April 18, 191 5 

Turned out at 7 and told we leave for reserve line 
at 8 to support our Brigade, in view of expected 
counter-attack — our attack on their trenches having 
been successful. 

Monday, April 19, 191 5 

Germans started our game of artillery bombard- 
ment, and gave it us hot all day. Understand they 
counter-attacked twice but were repulsed. Not 
moved out of reserve line. 

Tuesday, April 20, 191 5 

Our chaps getting it hot all day, and at 6 P. m. we 
were moved up to firing line under perfect torrent of 

[26] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

shells, shrapnel, and machine guns — most awful hour 
ever experienced and nerves absolutely gone. Two of 
our companies have had very hot time, losing many 
men. Luckily we did not have quite so many cas- 
ualties. At dawn moved back into supports, our 
position being taken over by regulars. I pray I may 
never have a similar experience. Too ghastly even 
to write about. 

Wednesday, April 21, 191 5 

Laid in supports all day. Situation apparently 
died down a bit, but we are staying here through night. 

Thursday, April 22, 191 5 

Relieved and returned to billets. Had not been 
there ten minutes before to our horror we saw French 
retreating on our left in a panic. Battalion ralHed and 
dug trench prepared to do our best. At 12 midnight 
informed that Canadians had saved situation, but 
French trenches still in hands of enemy. Our Brigade 
told off to retake them. 

Friday, April, 23, 19 15 

Moved to new position north of Ypres, and trenches 
retaken by Kings Own Scottish Borderers and West 
Kents, we acting as supports. Stayed all night making 
fatigue journeys to firing line, and oh! how I should 
like some sleep. 

[27] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Saturday, April 24, 191 5 

Hurried off to another part of line where Germans 
had also broken through. Journey made under 
terrific shell fire and half BattaHon is now gone. 
Position taken up in reserve trenches to be held at all 
costs. Very exciting but keeping calm and cool. 
Never prayed so fervently before, but am quite pre- 
pared to face whatever is to come and, please God, 
we shall stop them. Shell fire is awful. 

Sunday, April 25, 191 5 

Reinforcements up at dawn and attack in open order 
started. At first successful, and then to our horror saw 
our chaps retreating in disorder and Germans behind 
them a mile to our front. Most awful fifteen minutes 
of my life — shells everywhere — men being blown to 
pieces, and we unable to help, but bound to wait for 
Germans and drive them off. Then our chaps rallied 
and to our joy turned the tables, driving them back 
into woods and holding them there despite shells and foul 
gas bombs. Stayed there all day, shelled whole time. 
Evening position unchanged and we must stop here. 

Monday, April 26, 191 5 

At dawn hear more reinforcements are up and we 
can go. Thank God, it's over and the position safe. 
Trench strength of Battalion is now 230 rifles which 
will show what we have been through (normal strength 
about 1000). 

[28I 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Tuesday, April 27, 191 5 

Spent all day just behind firing line in reserve, and 
shall probably be here for some days. But what a 
difference a night's rest does make, and Vm ready to 
go forward at any time. 

Wednesday, April 28, 19 15 

Another day spent in reserve. Did nothing much 
all day and glad of the quiet. Shells falling pretty 
close to billet, but none near enough to hurt. 

Thursday, April 29, 191 5 

Ordered to return to trenches and left at 7 p. m. 
Arrived firing Hne at 10 p. m. and spent night on watch. 
Nothing much doing; just a little sniping, and they 
got a pal of mine through the neck a few yards from 
me. Blackguards! 

Friday, April 30, 19 15 

Shelled from early morning to late at night. An- 
other rotten experience, and am rapidly developing 
that awful complaint of "shellitis." If no attack 
at dusk we are to be relieved, so here's hoping they 
keep away from us. 

Saturday, May i, 191 5 

We were relieved during night and marched some 
way from trenches into a wood, where we are to stay 
for a day or two. Rigged up a covering of twigs, etc., 

[29] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

and slept during day. Sing-song in evening and feel- 
ing a big more cheerful. 

Sunday, May 2, 191 5 

Quiet day but called out at night owing to German 
attack. Laid in reserve trenches all night and returned 
to woods at dawn. 

Monday, May 3, 191 5 

Slept during day and once more called out at night 
owing to another German attack. Reserve trenches 
again all night, but once more attack repulsed and 
returned to woods. 

Tuesday, May 4, 191 5 

Actually off for rest at last, and marched five miles 
from Ypres to a village where we spent night. Under- 
stand we continue our journey in morning. 

Wednesday, May 5, 191 5 

What jolly hard luck we are having. Hill Sixty lost 
last night and we are to return to Ypres to help in coun- 
ter-attack. Marched all day back in boiling sun and 
spent night just behind firing line. Understand we go 
in to-morrow. Rather dread it, but it's got to be done. 

Thursday, May 6, 191 5 

Spent day in dugout whilst troops gathered 
together for to-night's attack. Eight from our Com- 

[30] 



DIARY KEP T BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

pany picked out to do nothing else but carry up 
ammunition as our men advance. Moved up to 
Hill Sixty at dusk, and at 2:30 a. m. attack commenced. 
Carried up ammunition with another chap right up 
to advance trenches. Terribly hot fire from machine 
guns and whiz-bangs, and rather a terrible experience. 
Stuck it till my partner overcome by gas. Helped him 
to dressing station, and then gave a hand helping down 
wounded. Poor devils, but what pluck most of them 
have got. Turned in at 5 a. m. after hearing attack 
partially successful. 

Friday, May 7, 191 5 
Day in reserve ready for any counter-attack but none 
came off. Night on fatigue work: carrying sand bags, 
etc., to firing line. Off duty at 3 a. m., and moved back 
nearer Ypres, but are still in reserve. Adjutant killed 
this morning: fine soldier and great loss to the Battalion. 

Saturday, May 8, 191 5 
Another day in reserve and night on fatigue, but 
was lucky in not having to go to trenches. Fetched 
rations and filled water bottles only. 

Sunday, May 9, 191 5 
Firing line again, this time digging communica- 
tion trench and repairing parapets where knocked 
down by shells. Wonderful view of Ypres on fire in 
three places and rapidly spreading. 

[31] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Monday, May lo, 191 5 

Carried up rations to West Lancshires. Awful 
job — sacks very heavy. Man in front of me shot in 
chest coming away. Carried him into cover and 
fetched stretcher bearers. 

Tuesday, May 11, 191 5 

Sand bags to firing Hne after spending quiet day. 
Our dugouts shelled during day and three men hit. 

Wednesday, May 12, 191 5 

Good news! We are to be relieved to-night. Left 
dugouts at 10:30 and reached camp at 5 a. m. w^eary 
and happy. 

Thursday, May 13, 19 15, to Thursday, May 20, 191 5 

Most enjoyable week's rest in camp at Locre. Did 
nothing of any importance and heard no guns and 
had no shells over. Felt all the better for it, but has 
gone all too quickly. 

Friday, May 21, 191 5 

Moved to huts nearer firing line and once more 
in sound of guns. Rotten! 

Saturday, May 22, 191 5 

Moved further up into dugouts and are now back 
in line once more. 

[32] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Sunday, May 23, 19 15 

Quiet day, but hard at work all night. Germans at- 
tacked 2 A. M. Monday morning and used gas. Horrible 
stuff. On our way to dugouts had fifteen in front of me 
knocked out by a shell. Awful sight and very upsetting. 

Monday, May 24, 191 5 

Quiet day spent in recovering from effects of gas. 
Hard at work again all night. 

Tuesday, May 25, 191 5 

Remarks of yesterday apply to to-day. Hope this 
comparative calm continues whilst we are up. 

Wednesday, May 26, 19 15 

Shelled on way to dugouts, early morning, with 
shrapnel but luckily no casualties. Evening left 
dugouts for fire trenches at St. Eloi. Arrived at mid- 
night and relieved the Liverpool Scottish. Quiet night. 

Thursday and Friday, May 27, 191 5, and May 28, 19 15 

Two quiet days in trenches. Nothing doing 
beyond sniping. Friday evening we left trenches 
for reserve line in a wood. 

Saturday and Sunday, May 29, 1915, and May 30, 1915 

Two lazy days in wood. On Saturday night car- 
ried rations to trenches, and on Sunday returned to 
trenches for another spell. 

[33] 



DIARY KEPT BY RIFLEMAN B. C. STUBBS 

Monday, May 31, 191 5 

Tuesday, June i, 191 5 

Wednesday, June 2, 191 5 

Thursday, Jtme 3, 191 5 

Four days on detached post connecting Queen 
Victoria Rifles with West Kents. Thursday night 
returned to supporting Hne about two hundred yards 
behind fire trenches. 

Friday and Saturday, June 4, 191 5, and June 5, 191 5 

On fatigue duty in supports; both days improving 
communication trench. Returned to woods Saturday 
night. 

Sunday and Monday, June 6, 191 5, and June 7, 191 5 

Two days spent in reserve in woods. Quite enjoyed 
the rest from bullets and shells. 

Tuesday, June 8, 191 5 
Wednesday, June 9, 191 5 
Thursday, June 10, 191 5 

Friday, June 11, 191 5 

Four days spent in fire trenches. Nothing doing 
much beyond sniping, except last two days when 
we were shelled by pretty heavy stuff. Not much 
damage done. 

[34] 



^. 



June 24, 1915 
Mrs. Stubbs: 

Dear Madam: In answer to your inquiry by tele- 
gram, I regret to inform you that Rifleman Stubbs, 
B. C. No. 2655, was wounded by shell fire on Tuesday, 
June 22, and has, we are deeply sorry to say, since 
passed away, having succumbed to his injuries. 

His death is much lamented by his officers and com- 
rades, two of whom were wounded by the same shell, 
one rather seriously. 

Deeply sympathizing with you in your terrible loss, 
I am. 

Yours sincerely. 
No. 66, M. Brown, Co. Q. M. S. 



British Expeditionary Force 

June 29, 1915 
Dear Mrs. Stubbs: 

This is to convey to you my sincere sympathy in 
the death of your son, Pr. Stubbs, who died from 
wounds received last Tuesday. His death was most 
unfortunate, a large German shell falling right in our 
trench, severely wounding your son and two others; 
when I saw your son's wound (a severe gash on the 
scalp), I was sure that there was very little hope of his 
recovery and I was surprised that he survived so long. 
Mercifully he was quite unconscious all the time, and 
so, I think, suffered no pain. 

Although he did not come out with the battalion in 
November, he joined, I think, with the first draft and 
so has been through all the heavy work we have done. 
I am sure you will be glad to know what a good soldier 
he was, and that he was always cheerful and did his 
work well during the hardships of the winter months. 

You may be sure his loss will be felt very deeply 
both by myself and by the rest of the platoon. But 
take comfort in this, that he died a noble soldier's 
death in a magnificent cause. 

Again assuring you of my deep sympathy, I am, 
Yours very sincerely, 

P. S. Houghton, 2nd. Lt. 

O. C. No. 8 Platoon, 
Q. V. R. 



Never the lotus closes, never the wild fowl wake 
But a soul goes out on the East- wind that died for England's sake- 
Man or woman or suckhng, mother or bride or maid— 
Because on the bones of the English the English Flag is stayed. 

RuDYARD Kipling 



PRINTED BY R. R. DONNELLEY 
AND SONS COMPANY, AT THE 
LAKESIDE PRESS : CHICAGO 



192 






^rr*' A 



^^^\ °o»|^' /% -.ifpJ ^^'•\. 

4 --O.^ tf* *r^»Wrj 



/ .'^^..% 



^"•n*.. 




. ,.>% I'^W: ^/'^ ^Hf; .^^-V. ,TOJ 







"i^ 




,4^ ...... V 







^•^ 0* 



o A^'^^, *>( Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 
♦ ^y %^ *» Neijtralizina aaent: Maanesium Oxide 



Neutralizing agent: Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: 



'o.T* .0^ ^5 *-Trr* A <> Treatment Date: .^qq^ 

c^ *l<f55jill' ^o 4* /i;);^- '^ Preservationiechnologies 

^ 4 «J^^Sl[VV «>* *"2^ *^iP^^^^* A WORLD LEADER IN PAPER PRESERVATION 

•^0 ^^B^*r8^S « 0> • J^SrWN«^ * 111 Thomson Park Drive 






.♦ .0 



>°-n*.. 



Cranberry Township. PA 16066 
(724) 779-2111 












■\:-''m^^\^^'- ''^/•Tf.^T-v*' 'V^^'>' 





0^ .•:fi/* *> 



^^..v 



r .^^-^^^ ^. 












*h9 




'>d' 




■^' 














-ov*' :^^.*. '-^/-o^ •-^^'•. •»bv* 






>°-nf.. 



-'•>°.^>;: 





















,V 







^^-n*^. 




.^^^- 



